Photos of Bloody Bridge
Before you go
Read before you swim
Reviews
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience.
Write a reviewAbout
Several dipping spots in the river as it races down the mountain to the sea. Care required as the speed of the water varies greatly depending on rainfall & flow and there can be strong currents in the pools - if in doubt do not enter at all. Pin on map marks one spot close to the wooden bridge, fairly easily accessed from the path & with amazing views down to the sea. Another spot is right at the start of the walk below the stone bridge. Other pools can also be accessed & explored.
Location
Getting there
Park in the lay-by (with toilets) on the main A2 south of Newcastle, signed for Bloody Bridge. Cross the road & follow the path that runs up the valley parallel to the river.
Accessibility
The path up the valley is uneven & climbs steadily. There are several side-paths that lead to the water to explore. The pinned pool is fairly easy to access but take great care on the rocks which are uneven & May be slippy.
What swimmers say
Facilities
Activities
Landscape
Help verify this spot
Sign in to help verify details about this spot.
Been here recently?
Share conditions, tips, or hazards to help other swimmers plan their visit to Bloody Bridge.
Share an updateFor beaches, lidos, cafés, saunas and swim venues
Run Bloody Bridge, or a café, sauna or club beside it?
Every swimmer at your spot asks the same question: how’s the water today? A free poster or a live screen answers it — and brings your swimmers into a community that reports back.
- Completely free No fee for venues, no fee for swimmers. Print the poster, open the screen, and it runs itself.
- Wild Pro is optional Swimmers who want days two to seven of the forecast can subscribe — £3.99/mo or £29.99/yr. Today’s conditions and all official water quality are free for everyone, with no account.
- Safety first Water temperature, wind, waves, tides and the official bathing-water rating, shown plainly so people can decide for themselves.
- Live conditions Forecasts from Open-Meteo, tides from WorldTides, sea temperature from Copernicus Marine, and water quality from the agencies that test it.
- Built on community Swimmers post what they found. A poster or a screen at your spot turns every swim into a report the next swimmer can use.
Frequently asked questions
Is this river safe for swimming?
Check the Conditions tab for current flow rate and recent rainfall. Rivers can become dangerous after heavy rain. Review community reports for hazards like weirs, strong currents, or access issues.
How cold is the water?
Check the Temperature tab for the current estimate and 7-day trend. River temperatures respond quickly to weather changes. In the UK, expect 5-10°C in winter and 15-20°C in summer at most locations.
What should I bring?
A tow float, shoes with grip for slippery banks, and warm layers for after. Water shoes protect against rocks and debris on the riverbed.
What should I know before swimming here?
Check recent rainfall. Rivers rise fast after heavy rain. Never swim in fast-flowing or flooded water. Test entry/exit before you commit. River banks can be undercut. Cold water shock is real. Enter slowly and control your breathing. Watch for submerged obstacles like branches, weirs, and rocks. Conditions change fast. Always check the latest data, read recent community reports, and swim within your ability.
